The United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Western Asia is known for its skyscrapers, architecture, thriving economy, and career opportunities. Obtaining UAE citizenship has become easier due to recent regulations. Previously, citizenship was limited to individuals who had resided in the UAE for 30 years, could speak Arabic, or were married to a UAE citizen for at least seven years. Foreigners honored with a UAE passport were also eligible. Amendments to the citizenship policy have extended eligibility to qualified foreign nationals, benefiting the nation's economic growth.

Eligibility for Emirati Citizenship in the United Arab Emirates

In 2021, the UAE introduced additions to the Executive Regulation of the Federal Law concerning Nationality and Passports to boost the country's economy. The updated criteria for UAE citizenship are as follows:

Exceptional merit:

• Doctors: Minimum ten years of experience, membership in a reputable organization, and recognized scientific contributions.
• Inventors: At least one UAE Ministry of Economy-approved patent or international patent.
• Scientists: Minimum ten years of experience, prestigious international award or research grant.
• Creative talents: Patented invention, international award, and recommendation from a government agency.Investors (eligible for the Golden Visa):Those who purchased real estate in the UAE.

The Golden Visa allows long-term residence for five or ten years, granting foreign talents the ability to live, work, and study in the UAE without a sponsor.

Additional categories and criteria include:

Scientists and researchers:

• PhD or Master's degree from a leading university.
• Ten years of academic experience, impactful research, and international awards.
• Recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council.

Exceptional talents in sports, digital tech, art, or culture fields:

• Received prestigious international awards.
• Recommendation letter from a government agency.
• Innovative and inventive career with one or more patents.

Entrepreneurs:

• Registered startup with AED1,000,000 in annual revenue or approved startup idea.
• Founder of a project sold for a minimum of AED7,000,000.

Highly-skilled workers:

• All disciplines eligible, with emphasis on administration, business, culture, engineering, IT, law, and medicine.
• High qualifications, relevant experience, valid employment contract, and minimum monthly salary of AED30,000.

Outstanding students and graduates:

• High academic achievements from Emirati or top 100 global universities.
• Graduation within the last two years.

Humanitarian pioneers:

• Recognition awards in humanitarian fields.
• Prominent volunteer or sponsor of humanitarian efforts.
• Outstanding membership in public benefit associations or global organizations.

Frontline heroes:

• Outstanding achievements in crisis situations, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Spouse, children, and non-family members can be included.

Foreign investors:

• Real estate investors: Minimum AED2,000,000 investment for a ten-year Golden Visa.
• Business investors: Minimum AED2,000,000 investment in a new or existing company.

Successful applicants, including the primary applicant, their spouse, and children, are eligible for Emirati citizenship.

Advantages of UAE Citizenship: Benefits and Privileges

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) boasts a stable economy, attracting individuals from around the globe to its popular cities such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ras Al-Khaimah, and Al Ain. These cities offer diverse job opportunities and host a thriving expat community. The UAE is known for its world-class education and healthcare infrastructure, providing excellent services. The country offers high salaries and a superb standard of living.

In the UAE, you have the opportunity to own a commercial business or work in a public institution. Furthermore, with 20 years of work experience, you can choose to retire at the age of 49. The UAE passport holds a strong position globally, ranking 24th in the Global Passport Index, which considers factors such as enhanced mobility, investment index, and quality of living. The country ranks 6th in the Investment Index, signifying its ease of doing business and investor-friendly environment.

The UAE passport offers significant investment opportunities worldwide. You can also include your family members in your citizenship application. With a UAE passport, you enjoy visa-free travel to numerous countries worldwide.

Process for Applying for Emirati Citizenship in the UAE

To obtain citizenship in the UAE, there are specific eligibility criteria that must be met, but there are no set rules regarding the application process. Here is a simplified outline of the steps involved:

• Application Review: The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship appoints a central advisory committee and sub-committees to independently review each candidate's application.
• Pre-approval: The sub-committees review the submitted data and filter applicants who meet the eligibility conditions for citizenship.
• Application Approval: Verified and approved applications are forwarded to the advisory committee, which includes representatives from each Emirate, for the final decision.

It's important to note that meeting the eligibility criteria doesn't guarantee citizenship. The Executive Council, Rulers, Crown Princes' Courts, and Cabinet have the final say in approving or denying citizenship in specific cases.

If you are denied UAE citizenship, an alternative option is to consider obtaining the UAE Golden Visa. This visa allows you to obtain a residence permit by making an investment in the country and enables you to work there. Additionally, the Golden Visa program allows for including your family members in the application.

Acquiring UAE Citizenship through Investment: Guidelines and Requirements

The UAE offers the Golden Visa program, granting foreign investors a long-term residence visa for living, working, and studying in the country. To qualify, investors must fully own the invested capital and provide proof of medical insurance.

For real estate investors, owning properties worth at least AED2,000,000 and providing a letter from the Department of Land and Real Estate Regulation will lead to a five-year Golden Visa without sponsorship. Alternatively, a two-year Property Investor Residence Visa can be obtained with a minimum investment of AED750,000 in residential or serviced apartments.

For a more long-term option, investors can qualify for a ten-year Property Investor Residence Visa by making a property investment of AED2,000,000.

Obtaining UAE citizenship involves various options based on investment, skills, education, or career. Choosing the appropriate option is crucial for embarking on an exciting new life in the United Arab Emirates.

Assistance from Global Citizen Solutions in Obtaining UAE Citizenship

Obtaining second citizenship and a second passport can be a complex process for expats and foreign investors. That's why it's valuable to have the assistance of an expert who can provide personalized guidance throughout the application process.

Our specialists offer the following services:

• Minimizing the number of visits required to the designated country.
• Dedicated representation, working exclusively on your behalf.
• Streamlining the application process, reducing associated hassles.
• Accessing insider knowledge from experienced professionals in the field.

Take the next step towards obtaining UAE citizenship and passport. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.

FAQ

How can I obtain a UAE passport?

There are several ways to obtain a UAE passport. You can acquire it through descent if you have UAE citizenship by birth or if your parents are UAE citizens. Naturalization is another option, where you fulfill the residency and other requirements set by the UAE government. Marriage to a UAE citizen can also make you eligible for a UAE passport. Additionally, individuals with exceptional merit in their fields may be granted UAE citizenship. Lastly, you can obtain a UAE passport through investment in the country.

Is it possible to acquire Dubai citizenship?

It's important to note that Dubai is a part of the UAE, so when people refer to "Dubai citizenship," they usually mean UAE citizenship. Foreigners can become Emirati citizens if they meet certain criteria. This includes being an investor or a talented individual in their respective fields. However, obtaining UAE citizenship is a complex process that requires special approval from the UAE authorities.

Are Pakistani citizens eligible for a UAE Golden Visa?

Yes, Pakistani citizens can obtain a UAE Golden Visa through investment in real estate. This visa provides long-term residency benefits and various advantages. If you want more information, please refer to our article specifically on the topic: "UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani Citizens."

How can foreigners obtain UAE citizenship?

According to the latest amendment, the following individuals can qualify to apply for citizenship in the UAE: foreign investors, experts in numerous industries, doctors and scientists, inventors and thinkers, persons with creative abilities, frontline heroes, students, and graduates.

Is it possible to buy citizenship in the UAE?

Directly purchasing citizenship in the UAE is not possible. However, you can invest in the UAE through purchasing property, which is one of the routes to citizenship under the UAE's citizenship-by-investment program.

Can Dubai citizenship be acquired through investment?

Yes, Dubai citizenship can be obtained through the UAE's citizenship-by-investment program. Since Dubai is part of the UAE, making an investment in Dubai is a pathway to obtaining UAE citizenship.

What is the cost of obtaining citizenship in the UAE?

The cost of obtaining citizenship in the UAE depends on the type of real estate investment you choose to make. For a two-year Property Investor Residence Visa, the minimum investment required is AED750,000 (about $204,000) for residential or serviced apartments, or AED1,000,000 (about $272,000) for hotel rooms, villas, townhouses, offices, or warehouses. For a ten-year UAE Golden Visa, the minimum investment required is AED2,000,000 (about $545,000).

How much investment is required for UAE permanent residence?

The investment required for permanent residence in the UAE varies depending on whether you choose to invest in a business or real estate. The specific cost will depend on the details of your investment plan.

How can I obtain UAE citizenship through investment?

There are two investment options that can lead to citizenship in the UAE. The first option is a two-year Property Investor Residence Visa, which requires an investment ranging from AED750,000 to AED1,000,000 (about $204,000-$272,000). The second option is the ten-year UAE Golden Visa, which requires an investment of AED2,000,000 (about $545,000).